OrthodoxWikiβ

Iconographers

This article or section needs help from an expert on the subject. Specific recommendations may be found on the talk page. You can help OrthodoxWiki by editing it.

Iconographers translate revealed scripture and divine truths into visual images, crafting the icon with consecrated brushes, paints, and materials. Ideally, they should be pious individuals trained by holy fathers. Monks and nuns, therefore, have traditionally been the primary source of icons. Most iconographers outside of monasteries today have commercialized the sacred art of iconography.

Iconographers should pray, fast, and avoid worldly excitement during their work. Individual interpretation should be kept to a minimum as their task is to pass on tradition by replicating previous icons within prescribed limits. Works should remain anonymous, but if signed, be inscribed with the words, "By the hand of [name]."